Uganda is set to host a regional summit of heads of state this coming Sunday, aimed at addressing the rapidly worsening security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where armed violence has intensified in recent weeks.

The meeting is expected to bring together leaders from the Great Lakes region to assess the escalating threat posed by armed groups operating in North Kivu and Ituri provinces, as well as the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict, including mass displacement and civilian casualties.

Political analyst Kizerbo Kasereka, speaking from Beni in eastern DRC, said the announcement of the summit had been received with cautious optimism. “The decision by Uganda to convene regional leaders is important because the insecurity in eastern DRC has reached a level that can no longer be managed by the DRC alone,” he said.

Kasereka noted that persistent attacks by armed groups continue to undermine stability and deepen the humanitarian crisis. He stressed that any meaningful outcome would depend on concrete commitments from regional leaders. “What people here are looking for is not just another meeting, but clear actions, particularly on border security, coordination between regional forces and protection of civilians,” he said.

Uganda has previously played a role in regional security efforts, including joint military operations with the Congolese army against rebel groups. Analysts say the upcoming summit could shape the next phase of regional engagement, including diplomatic, military and humanitarian responses.

Eastern DRC has endured decades of conflict driven by the presence of multiple armed groups, competition over resources and regional rivalries. The situation has worsened in recent months, raising concerns about further instability across neighbouring countries.

–ChannelAfrica–